Non-profit, zero-barrier Chilliwack pantry earns community award from UFV
CHILLIWACK — In her 17 years of working in the mental health and addiction field, Raylene Mumford witnessed first-hand what food security can do to stabilize a community’s sense of well-being among its vulnerable, distressed residents.
In 2021, as food prices rose and impacted many families and individuals socioeconomically, Mumford founded Free Store Chilliwack that same year to address an unmet need in the community. The non-profit relies on volunteers to supply the community with fresh food, clothing, hygiene and houseware products free of charge.
In light of their substantial role in providing Chilliwack residents with zero-barrier access to food and everyday essentials, Free Store Chilliwack was awarded this year’s Betty Urquhart Award at a ceremony last week in Chilliwack.
Betty Urquhart was among the very first UFV staff members who made the university what it is today. She was an avid volunteer with a strong belief in giving back. Following her passing in 1995, UFV has preserved her legacy with an award in her name. The Betty Urquhart Award is presented annually to a person or a collective who has made an extraordinary contribution to a community within the Fraser Valley.